“Strengthening and stimulating good self-esteem in children is important because it allows them to feel confident in their abilities and skills. This security can be observed in their interpersonal relationships and in their personal development, both cognitive and emotional, since it allows them to persevere in order to achieve their goals,” says Mary Castro, a psychologist at our clinic, who provides us with a series of recommendations for our children to have good self-esteem.

What traits define a child with good self-esteem?

• Confidence in himself and his abilities
• Is optimistic and shows motivation to learn and to face new challenges.
• He is resilient and does not usually feel defeated if he fails, because he takes it as a learning opportunity.
• He is empathetic, putting himself in the place of others and acting accordingly.
• Does not seek acceptance from others, because he feels comfortable with himself.
• Expresses what he/she thinks and feels in an appropriate and assertive manner
• Is independent and makes decisions on his own
• Assumes responsibility for its actions
• Is tolerant of frustration and handles stress without feeling overwhelmed
• Relates in a positive and healthy way with other children and adults

Recommendations for our children to have a good self-esteem:

• Discover their strengths in the different aspects in which your children perform.
• Praise their accomplishments, mentioning how proud you are of what they have achieved (not necessarily in the academic area).
• Accompany them in their failures, that is, let them know that they are not alone and that they always have the support of their family who will support them and encourage them to keep trying.
• Be a positive role model. Children should not only listen to mom and dad, but also see how they go about different aspects of their lives with a good attitude.
• Learn to value your children’s effort, not just the result. They need to feel that you appreciate their dedication whether or not they succeed or fail.
• Always show them unconditional love, making your children feel that love. Many times words are not enough, but also showing them love with our actions.

Mary Castro
Psychologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma